You Don't Need a Degree in Counting to Know This: How Many Marathon Maniacs Conquered London in 2024?
The annual London Marathon is a legendary test of human endurance, a sightseeing tour on fire (figuratively, of course, unless someone spilled their post-race chili), and a massive party in the streets... for the spectators at least. But how many valiant souls actually completed the course in 2024?
Brace yourselves, trivia buffs: a whopping 53,000 runners crossed the finish line! That's more people than live in a good chunk of small countries. Imagine the high-fives, the emotional breakdowns (hopefully happy ones!), and the sheer volume of discarded energy gels.
Now, you might be wondering, "Is that a lot for a marathon?" Well, buckle up, because we're about to dive into...
The Not-So-Scientific Investigation: Were There More Runners or Pigeons in London in 2024?
Let's be honest, those feathered fiends are practically London royalty. But here's the thing: there's no definitive count on the pigeon population. However, 53,000 runners is a pretty solid number. So, while the pigeons might have had a cheering section advantage, the marathon runners likely took the crown in terms of sheer numbers.
But hey, if you're planning a pigeon vs. runner race, hit us up. We'd watch that.
Fun Fact Friday: They Didn't ALL Finish First (Thank Goodness)
While 53,000 runners is impressive, it's worth noting that this number refers to those who finished the race. The starting numbers are likely much higher, considering the folks who decide halfway through they'd rather be curled up with a cup of tea than pounding the pavement.
No judgement here. We all have our limits (mine involve anything past a brisk walk to the mailbox).
Burning Rubber (Shoes, Not Tires): How to Get Your Feet in the 2025 London Marathon
Inspired by these marathon warriors? Here's a quick guide to joining the fun next year:
How to Apply: Get ready for a battle royale! With over 840,000 applicants for the 2025 race, the application process is competitive. https://www.tcslondonmarathon.com/ has all the info you need.
How to Train: Don't just lace up your sneakers and yeet yourself out the door. Train properly! Consult a coach, listen to your body, and don't be afraid to walk during training runs (your knees will thank you).
How to Prepare Mentally: A marathon is as much mental as it is physical. Visualize success, create a mantra (because everyone loves a good mantra!), and find a running buddy to keep you motivated.
How to Fuel Your Body: Carbs are your friend! But don't forget about protein and healthy fats too. There are tons of resources online to help you create a marathon-worthy diet.
How to Not Freak Out: It's okay to be nervous! Just focus on putting one foot in front of the other and enjoying the experience (well, maybe enjoying it after you cross the finish line).
So there you have it! The lowdown on how many runners conquered the London Marathon in 2024, and a few pointers to get you started on your own marathon journey. Now get out there and train, champ!
